Lenka – Attune

By starrymag | October 13, 2017

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) Uplifting singer-songwriter Electro-folk-pop? I don’t know. The list goes on!

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) This album has me hitting moments of Annie Lennox and Elton John, which was weird and abnormal for me! I’m feeling inspired by artists like that whose song craft is very grandiose.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Heal.”

A) It was written at my house while I was pregnant, along with co-writer Sally Seltman (feist’s “1,2,3,4”) and we were exploring the idea of female friendship and overcoming moments of complicated bitchy stuff. I had an experience like that recently and really wanted to rise above and move on!
Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) We all need to feel a little healing right now. Always! But right now, especially.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) I went with a mood really. I directed the video and just wanted a really healing, soft vibe. It hints at the idea of cults and sensuality, but is very subtle.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) The two ideally come at the same time for me. The words and the melody – the hook. Then, the rest of the song needs to come into clarity. Sometimes that part can take a long time.
Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) I produced the whole record! It was the first time for me and a very amazing experience. It was challenging but felt good to be learning new skills at this stage. I’ve always been a co-producer of sorts, but his time I wanted to be the person agilely responsible for the sounds you hear on the record.
Q) What can fans expect from a live LENKA performance?

A) I always play some old favorites and I always love doing those songs and new stuff, of course, and a cover or two. This tour has a slightly more electronic sound. Beats instead of drums, synths, etc…

 

Q) What songs off your album Attune are you looking forward to performing live?

A) The song “Slow Lane” is a real pleasure to perform live. It’s relaxing. I usually sit or even lie down and really just try to get into the vibe of the song.

 

Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your new album as a whole?

A) I actually tried not to think about that with this record. I made it just for me really. But I hope people enjoy the music and get where I’m coming from!

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) Outside gigs are always a fav because I love looking at the sky and breathing the fresh air. Smaller venues I find are usually better gigs for me. I’m better at connecting with the audience on a smaller scale.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) I don’t know! I don’t think about it. I’m open to whatever…

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

A) I absolutely love Lana Del Ray’s album. I know a lot of it off by heart now! This is rare for me! I usually just listen to the same old stuff but this record really got me. Solange, too. Love her!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) It’s easy and direct and feels really personal and friendly. I’ve been lucky to have not had any weird vibes on there yet so I’m quite open still. But I’ve kept my kids off there for the most part. I want them to decide for themselves…

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) I’m so grateful to you and proud that my music has connected with you! Thank you and loads of love your way!